It’s Time For Spring Cleaning! 6 Ways To Keep Your Mattress Clean.

Mattresses, like most other pieces of furniture, collect dust and other particles from the air in your house. Mattresses also accumulate skin cells, hair, and other bodily fluids like sweat. So while you don’t need to clean your bed as often as you wash your sheets, you should set aside time every 4-6 months to give your mattress a deep cleaning. Here’s how to get your mattress clean and keep it clean:

Use a mattress protector.
This one’s a no-brainer. Mattress protectors are a great way to safeguard your investment. They’ll prevent liquid from seeping through your sheets, should you accidentally spill food or drink in bed. Mattress covers also defend your mattress from stains, moisture, dust mites, and pet dander. 

For many mattresses, warranties are void if spill damage or stains are visible on the mattress. So make sure you use a mattress protector, and wash it every other time you wash your sheets. 

Wash your sheets regularly.
Change your sheets every week to be sure the barrier between you and your mattress is clean. If your sheets are dirty or retaining moisture, your mattress could bear the consequences. Fabric and foam break down faster when exposed to moisture, so make sure your bed and sheets are dry. 
 
Set a regular time for cleaning and rotating. 
If you coordinate the time you clean and rotate your mattress with another activity you do quarterly or semiannually, it will be easier to remember your mattress. For example, you may deep clean your baseboards and windows every four months. Use that time to clean and rotate your mattress and wash your pillows. 

Most modern mattresses aren’t meant to be flipped, but you can and should rotate certain mattresses. That way, the material will wear more evenly, and your mattress will ultimately last longer. Before you rotate your mattress (from end to end), check the instructions or warranty. Different manufacturers will have differing recommendations, depending on the type of mattress you own. 

Use your vacuum. 
Use the upholstery attachment on your vacuum, and run it firmly along the surface of your mattress. You can also use the crevice attachment to get in between tufts and seams. Make sure the vacuum attachments are clean before you start, and empty the vacuum bag if you have one.

Deodorize with baking soda.
If your mattress smells like mildew, smoke or any other unpleasant odor, you can deodorize it with baking soda. Sprinkle baking soda over the entire surface of the mattress and leave it on for as long as possible — 24 hours is best if you can sleep somewhere else for the night. Once the baking soda sits overnight (or for as long as you can allow), vacuum it up using your upholstery attachments. 

Bring on the sunshine.
If at all possible, move your mattress to a window and let it soak up some sun. The direct sunlight can bring a little bit of natural disinfectant to your bed. Of course, mattresses and beds aren’t easily moved, so this method isn’t for everyone.